Better get to the Mergui archipelago quick sharp. This Bangkok Post article says that resorts could be built as early as December (but that’s been said before).

“The region has a lot of potential to be a new tourism destination as most of the islands are untouched and have coral reefs,” said Sai Kyaw Ohn, deputy minister for hotels and tourism. “We hope these can attract eco-tourists and divers.”

Some 27 local companies and joint ventures are awaiting approval from the Myanmar Investment Commission for new hotel and resort projects on the islands.

Last year fewer than 3,000 tourists visited an area comprising over 800 islands. That number is only going to increase.